It is common that garden lovers wish to add special water features like a pond to make it more elegant. Various types of water plants and marine animals can be grown in a garden pond. However, it is always associated with algal concerns. Garden pond algae consume oxygen depleting its supply for other plants and animals in it. It is necessary to control or avoid the growth of algae in a garden pond.
Removal of sources of shade is an easiest way to prevent the growth of algae in the water feature. Take out some lily pads from the pond to ensure this and also remove some plants from the banks. Another recognized method for controlling garden pond algae is to use blue pond dye. It filters the sunlight and with this the algae have no chance to access the right kind of light needed for the survival. However, this dye is not harmful to any other plants and aquatic life of the pond.
Ultraviolet sterilizers also help in removal algae from ponds. They are also referred as clarifiers and kill any free-floating bacteria, suspended algae, mold spores, fungi, viruses and other parasites. However, one disadvantage of these UV sterilizers is that they do not kill any attached algae. Using skimmers is another common method for controlling algal growth in garden ponds. Skimmers are meant to trap and filter the debris which when left in the pond may promote algal growth. Though it does not control algae completely, it can be used as a tiny bit of assistance.
Chemical treatments including algicide is the best way to avoid the growth of algae in garden ponds. Specific chemicals are used to treat specific types of algae. However, one should be careful when selecting an algicide as some of them may even damage the different types of fish present in your pond. Consider these methods to avoid garden pond algae and ensure better maintenance of the pond.